The Media Institute for Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi has called on journalists in the country to enhance their fact-checking skills in election coverage to combat disinformation.
MISA Malawi Chairperson Golden Matonga highlighted the challenges posed by disinformation during elections. He made these remarks during the launch of the 2025 elections at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.
“There are a lot of rumors being peddled by various sectors during this period. Sometimes, such peddlers aim to sow conflict in society,” Matonga said.
He urged the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and media institutions to ensure journalists receive proper training to avoid publishing conflict-sensitive stories. Matonga also emphasized the need to protect journalists during elections to ensure they can operate in a safe and conducive environment.
“All stakeholders should ensure that journalists can exercise their freedom without intimidation. They should also know what to do in times of conflict,” Matonga added.
At the launch, MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja called for full participation in all electoral processes to promote democracy through voting. She emphasized that the upcoming elections will be disability-friendly to ensure inclusivity.
The MEC has accredited 116 Civil Society Organizations to conduct civic education exercises, with training to commence soon. The pilot phase of voter registration is expected to begin this month, with the full rollout planned in three phases starting in September 2024.
The launch was conducted under the theme “Promoting Democratic Leadership through My Vote.”
